Modules for a measuring device and measuring device

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to a module for a measuring device and to a measuring device. The inventive module for a measuring device is provided with a plug-in contact element for the electrical contact of the plug-and-socket plate of the measuring device which is used for data transfer. Said module for the measuring device comprises a main circuit card arranged in the first circuit card space. Said first circuit card space is formed by at least one first element of the body which encompasses the circuit card in a closed manner on the level of the external periphery thereof.

The invention relates to plug-in measuring-device modules for insertioninto a measuring device and a measuring device with measuring-devicemodules, which can be plugged into a measuring device housing.

Building up measuring devices from several measuring-device moduleswhich can be plugged into a housing is already known, for example, fromDE 39 33 647 A1. In this document, the measuring device is formed from ahousing, into which several plug-in components are inserted. The plug-incomponents are jointly connected to a plug-and-socket panel, by means ofwhich an electrical connection of the plug-in components is achieved.The individual plug-in components are combined in their function to forma complete measuring device.

The housing is designed to be inserted into a 19 inch rack, without theneed to remove the plug-in component groups from the housing in order tofit them into a 19 inch rack of this kind. The plug-in component groupsare inserted into the measuring device from the front. Accordingly, wheninserting the housing into a 19 inch rack, all of the connections of theplug-in component groups are therefore accessible exclusively from thefront. However, if the measuring device is to be used as a table-topdevice, it can be fitted with an information-output device arranged as afunctional unit at the rear of the measuring device. Theinformation-output device extends over the entire width of the measuringdevice. To operate the measuring device, it must be rotated so that theinformation-output device is facing towards the operator. Theconnections, which are arranged on the individual plug-in componentgroups are, at the same time, turned away from the operator, so that aconnection, for example, of a measuring line is possible only at theside facing away from the operator.

Such measuring-device modules have the disadvantage that a module, whichprovides the appropriate structural space for the necessary electroniccomponents, must be specially constructed for each module type. In thecase of plug-in component groups with a small space requirement, the useof standardised parts is therefore only possible if a correspondingempty space is acceptable.

With the measuring device described, it is disadvantageous that aconnection of a measuring line is not possible at the side facing theoperator.

A further disadvantage is that a mobile use of the measuring device isonly possible under limited conditions, because a protective deviceagainst vibrations is not provided for the individual plug-in componentgroups. The reliability of this measuring device is considerably reducedbecause of the absence of such a protective device against vibrations,which may occur, for example, when the device is put down at a measuringstation.

A further disadvantage is that with the device proposed, the individualplug-in component groups form a complete functional unit only incombination with one another. It is therefore necessary to calibrate themeasuring device in its entirety including all of the co-operatingplug-in component groups. Replacement of an individual plug-in componentgroup is not possible without re-calibrating the measuring device.

The object of the present invention is to create a measuring-devicemodule, which satisfies different structural space requirements with anextensive use of standardised parts, and to create a measuring devicewith plug-in measuring-device modules, which allows convenient operationby an operator from the side with the display device.

This object is achieved by the measuring-device modules as definedaccording to the embodiments described herein.

Each individual measuring-device module provides a firstprinted-circuit-board space and a second printed-circuit-board space.The use of such mutually separate spaces allows the possibility ofarranging those components, which are sensitive particularly with regardto their high-frequency behaviour, for example, in the firstprinted-circuit-board space, and of protecting this space fromelectromagnetic radiation with special protective measures. Suchprotective measures can also be arranged on the printed-circuit boarditself, for example, by means of a metallic covering of the components.This allows an open design of the measuring-device module, which leadsto a better flow of cooling air.

Moreover, it is advantageous if the measuring-device module is built upfrom at least one frame element, of which the external peripherysurrounds the printed-circuit board arranged inside it in an essentiallyenclosed manner. The use of frame elements allows the achievement of avariable system with a high degree of symmetry. This means thatproduction costs can be kept to a minimum in view of the small number ofdifferent parts to be manufactured.

According to one embodiment, the measuring device has aninformation-output device at its front side; a recess is also providedat the front side of the measuring device, which allows access to anelectrical connection. Via this electrical connection, a measuring line,for example, can be connected to a measuring-device module plugged intothe measuring device. This offers the advantage that, for example, ifthe device under test is changed, a measuring line can be replacedwithout having to rotate the measuring device in order to gain access tothe connection at the rear.

Advantageous further developments of the measuring device and themeasuring-device modules according to the invention are possible withreference to the measures defined in the dependent claims.

In particular, it is advantageous, if, in addition to the connectionsarranged at the front of the device, further connections, which arearranged on the individual measuring-device modules, are provided at therear of the device as input or output connections. As a result, thoseconnections, which must frequently be linked to different lines by theoperator, can be arranged at the front of the measuring device, whileother connections, which are used less frequently, can be arranged atthe rear. This leaves a large area at the front of the measuring device,which is available either for the arrangement of operating elements orfor a large display.

Moreover, it is advantageous, to fit the measuring-device modules intothe measuring device by means of a guide device, wherein the guidedevice has at least one resiliently deformable guide element, which iscapable of reducing the hardness of any impact acting on themeasuring-device module as a result of a vibration. The reliability andoperating life of the measuring device is considerably improved becauseof the correspondingly reduced acceleration acting on all of thecomponents contained in the respective measuring-device module.

In this context, the grid dimension of the guide devices isadvantageously selected so that, between each adjacent measuring-devicemodule, in the region of the first printed-circuit-board spaces, aslight gap is formed, through which an air flow is guided in order tocool the measuring-device modules. To prevent a tilting or rotarymovement of the inserted measuring-device modules, the guide elementsare preferably formed from a number of resilient tongues arranged in arow.

The plug-and-socket panel is mounted in a floating manner within themeasuring-device housing in order to prevent the measuring-devicemodules from damaging the connection sockets formed on theplug-and-socket panel as they move during a vibration, and to balancetolerances. In this context, the mounting is preferably designed so thata displacement of the plug-and-socket panel can only take place byovercoming a certain frictional force, so that a vibration of themeasuring device as a whole leads to a considerable damping of themovement of the individual measuring-device modules.

By particular preference, the measuring-device modules are designed asper se enclosed functional units. This means that each measuring-devicemodule provides the full functional scope of a measuring device. In thiscontext, the connections, by means of which a measuring-device module isconnected, are used, on the one hand, to connect a device or a componentgroup to be measured, and, on the other hand, to connect themeasuring-device module to a bus system, which is provided according toone preferred embodiment of the plug-and-socket panel. The data producedby a measuring-device module are supplied via this bus system to othermeasuring-device modules or to external computer systems for furtherprocessing. In addition to transferring parameter sets for theimplementation of a measurement to the relevant measuring-devicemodules, the bus system is also used for supplying electrical energy tothe measuring-device modules. For this purpose, a power pack designed asa plug-in module is provided, which makes use of the grid dimension ofthe measuring-device modules used, but occupies several grid units, andwhich is also connected via a plug connection to the plug-and-socketpanel.

Furthermore, it is advantageous that each base element of ameasuring-device module can be connected to another base element, andthat each second printed-circuit-board space of the two connected baseelements forms a common additional printed-circuit-board space. In thiscase, each first printed-circuit-board space is a separate, enclosedspace for each base element, which has only one or more locally limitedopenings for the passage of parts of a main printed-circuit board. Ineach first printed-circuit-board space, one main printed-circuit boardis accommodated respectively, the two main printed-circuit boardspreferably being connected via an additional printed-circuit boardarranged in the additional printed-circuit-board space. Accordingly, thetwo base elements, connected via an additional printed-circuit board inthe additional printed-circuit-board space, jointly form ameasuring-device module, which is plugged into the measuring device. Thetwo main printed-circuit boards can also be connected by a cable or mayhave a direct plug connection in the additional printed-circuit-boardspace.

Moreover, the second printed-circuit-board space can be extended to forman additional printed-circuit-board space by connecting one base elementto a frame element instead of the second base element; as a result ofthe additional printed-circuit-board space, an enlarged region isprovided, in which the main printed-circuit board of themeasuring-device module can be connected.

Opposite to a connection of this kind provided in the region of thesecond printed-circuit-board space, a connection carrier, on which anadditional electrical connection is arranged, is advantageously providedon the base element. While the connections provided in the region of thesecond printed-circuit-board space are orientated towards the rear ofthe device, the additional electrical connection is positioned, by meansof the connection carrier, so far in the direction of the front of themeasuring device that, when the measuring-device module is inserted, itcan be inserted through the recess in the front of the device and can beoperated from the front.

With the base element made from two frame elements, which can beconnected together to form a base frame, it is particularlyadvantageous, if the frame elements are provided with centring elements,on which the main printed-circuit board is centred within the baseframe. The printed-circuit board is fixed between the two frame elementsduring assembly of the second frame element.

The connection between a measuring-device module and the plug-and-socketpanel preferably takes place by means of a plug-in contact element,which is designed as a part of the main printed-circuit board and isguided from the first printed-circuit-board space through an appropriaterecess in the base frame. For this purpose, the frame elements, whichare preferably manufactured as cast parts, are milled, only one milledrecess being preferably formed in each frame element when the base framehas been assembled, so that a groove provided to receive an HF seal doesnot need to be penetrated.

Frames which are open at both sides of the surface of the mainprinted-circuit board are preferably used as the frame elements. Coverplates are then fitted to the base frame, which consists of two frameelements of this kind, to form a closed base element. To improvecooling, the cover plates can have perforations, through which thecooling air can flow into the measuring-device module. To attach thecover plates to the base frame, clip elements are provided, which arepushed over the cover plates from the external periphery of the baseframe after placing the cover plates onto the base frame. Accordingly,the base frame and the cover plates are combined to form a base elementby the attachment of the clip elements, wherein the clip elementsprovide locking projections, which engage with correspondingindentations provided in the cover plates in the form of beading strips.This prevents an accidental release of the clip elements, which areunder spring tension.

Furthermore, the clip elements provide a surface, which is arranged inthe region of the external periphery of the base frame after fitting theclip elements, and is formed on the at least one guide element. Thisguide element co-operates with a corresponding guide element formed onthe measuring device to form a guide device.

Exemplary embodiments of the measuring device and the measuring-devicemodules according to the invention are shown in the drawings and will beexplained below. The drawings are as follows:

FIG. 1 shows a schematic presentation of a view of the front of themeasuring device according to the invention;

FIG. 2 shows a perspective presentation of a receiving device of themeasuring device;

FIG. 3 shows a perspective presentation of the receiving device withhousing components removed;

FIG. 4 shows a perspective presentation of the receiving device with themeasuring-device modules removed;

FIG. 5 shows a perspective presentation of the receiving device with theblank elements removed;

FIG. 6 shows a schematic presentation of the structure of a firstmeasuring-device module according to the invention;

FIG. 7 shows a schematic presentation of the structure of a secondmeasuring-device module according to the invention;

FIG. 8 shows a schematic presentation of the structure of a firstmeasuring-device module according to the invention consisting of twobase elements;

FIG. 9 shows a schematic presentation of the structure of a secondmeasuring-device module according to the invention consisting of twobase elements;

FIG. 10 shows a schematic presentation of the structure of a firstmeasuring-device module according to the invention with spacingelements;

FIG. 11 shows a schematic presentation of a third measuring-devicemodule according to the invention consisting of two base elements;

FIG. 12 shows a schematic presentation of a third measuring-devicemodule according to the invention consisting of two base elements shownfrom a second perspective;

FIG. 13 shows a schematic presentation of a fourth measuring-devicemodule according to the invention;

FIG. 14 shows a schematic presentation of the structure of a fifthmeasuring-device module according to the invention with a frame body;and

FIG. 15 shows a schematic presentation of the structure of a fifthmeasuring-device module according to the invention with a frame bodyfrom a second perspective.

An exemplary embodiment of a measuring device according to the inventionis illustrated in FIG. 1. The measuring device 1 according to theinvention comprises a measuring-device housing, at the front of which aninformation-output device 9 is arranged. A display device 3 isintegrated in the information-output device 9. Furthermore, to operatethe measuring device 1, several operating elements 4, which can be usedto adjust various parameters for the implementation of a measurement orto call up different functions, are arranged in the information-outputdevice 9 in the area on the front of the measuring device not requiredfor the display device 3. A recess 5, through which an electricalconnection 6 is accessible, is also provided at the front of themeasuring device 1.

As will be described in greater detail below, the electrical connection6 is arranged on a measuring-device module, which can be plugged intothe measuring device 1 and, after assembly of the measuring-devicemodule, projects through the recess 5 at the front of the measuringdevice 1. In the exemplary embodiment of the measuring device 1according to the invention, the recess 5 is large enough to create anaccess to a second electrical connection, which can be provided for afurther measuring-device module plugged into the device. In theexemplary embodiment presented, the corresponding opening in the frontpanel of the measuring device 1 can be closed with a blank cover 7.

Furthermore, a handle 8, which can be fixed to the lateral surfaces ofthe measuring device 1 via a clip device in a rail, is arranged on themeasuring device housing 2. The handle 8 can be fixed via the clipdevice in almost any position required, so that it also acts as asupport for the measuring device 1, by means of which the inclination ofthe measuring device can be adjusted.

FIG. 2 shows the interior of the measuring device 1. Theinformation-output device 9 arranged at the front of themeasuring-device housing has been removed to allow a better view. Withinthe measuring-device housing 2, a receiving device 10 is arranged, atthe front 10 a of which, the information-output device 9 is attached. Inthis context, the information-output device 9 is screwed to anoperating-panel carrier 16 and is fixed together with the latter to thereceiving device 10. By means of the operating-panel carrier 16, theinformation-output device 9 is arranged at a distance from aplug-and-socket panel 11, which, in the exemplary embodiment shown, isarranged in the receiving device 10 parallel to the front of themeasuring device 1.

The height h of the plug-and-socket panel 11 is significantly smallerthan the overall structural height H of the receiving device 10. Theplug-and-socket panel 11 is arranged in an upper region of the receivingdevice 10. By way of extension of the plug-and-socket panel 11, anair-guide plate 18 is arranged toward the base 17 of the receivingdevice 10. Together with the plug-and-socket panel 11, the air-guideplate 18 separates the entire structural volume of the measuring devicehousing 2 into a front and a rear region.

A fan 19 is arranged in a lower region of the operating-panel carrier16, which pumps ambient air via a cooling-air inlet 28, which isprovided in a lateral wall of the measuring device 1, into a cooling-airshaft 21 to cool the electronic components of the measuring device 1.The cooling-air shaft 21 is limited at the lower side of the housing bya base plate 22 of the operating-panel carrier 16 and at the upper sideby an intermediate plate 23. The intermediate plate 23 is disposed atthe height of the transition between the plug-and-socket panel 11 andthe air-guide plate 18.

The air-guide plate 18 provides a plurality of openings 24, by means ofwhich the cooling-air shaft 21 is connected to a module region 25 in therear portion of the receiving device 10. The air drawn by means of thefan 19 from the environment around the measuring device 1 accumulates inthe cooling-air shaft 21. The pressure is balanced via the openings 24in the direction of the module region 25, so that the module region 25is regularly supplied with fresh cooling air. The electronic componentsof the measuring-device modules arranged in the module region 25 arecooled by the flow of cooling air. To achieve an air flow for-coolingthe measuring-device module not only in the lower region of themeasuring device 1, the air-guide plate 18 is designed in an angledmanner, thereby forming a vertical portion 18 a and a horizontal portion18 b. The cooling air is then deflected over the horizontal portion 18 bfrom the cooling-air shaft 21 into the region of the plug-and-socketpanel 11.

The cooling-air shaft is limited in the direction towards one side wall30 of the operating-panel carrier 16 by a perforated plate 31, in orderto provide an accessible electrical connection, at least for some of themeasuring-device modules fitted, which is also accessible from theinformation-output device 9. Between the side wall 30 and the perforatedplate 31, the air-guide plate 18 is cut away appropriately creating athrough opening 32, through which, as already explained, the electricalconnections of the measuring-device module accessible from the front ofthe measuring device can be plugged.

A guide device 15 is formed on the base 17 of the receiving device 10for each of the plug-in measuring-device modules, into which anindividual measuring-device module can be introduced from the open, rearside 26 of the receiving device 10. This guide device 15 comprises agroove 27, which achieves the lateral guiding of a measuring-devicemodule. Furthermore, the guide device 15 comprises several resilienttongues 14, which are arranged in the groove 27. The resilient tongues14 hold the inserted measuring-device module at a defined distance fromthe base 17 of the receiving device 10. If a force acts upon theinserted measuring-device module, for example, when the measuring deviceis placed on a table, then the resilient tongues 14 are subjected toresilient deformation and the impact on the measuring-device module istherefore reduced. The guide components 15 of the receiving deviceco-operate with guide elements, which are arranged on themeasuring-device modules and will be described below, in guiding themeasuring-device modules.

For the exchange of data, each inserted measuring-device module isconnected to a plug-and-socket panel 11 via one plug-in connection,several plug sockets 12 a to 12 e being provided on the plug-and-socketpanel 11 for this purpose. In addition to this number of plug sockets 12a to 12 e, further plug sockets 27 a to 27 b can also be provided on theplug-and-socket panel 11, which are used, for example, for connecting acomputer module. The plug sockets 12 a to 12 e and the further plugsockets 27 a, 27 b are components of a bus system which is formed on theplug-and-socket panel 11. This bus system is controlled via a computermodule, which is also plugged into the receiving device 10. The distancebetween the plug sockets is determined by the grid dimension, accordingto which the guide devices are designed; by way of deviation from this,the plug sockets 12 a and 12 b have a wider spacing to allow theimplementation of electrical connections at the front of the measuringdevice 1.

The measuring-device modules do not have their own power supply, but aresupplied with electrical energy from a common current and voltage supplyvia the bus system formed on the plug-and-socket panel 11. For thispurpose, a further plug element 13 is formed on the plug-and-socketpanel 11, by means of which the plug-and-socket panel 11 is connected toa power pack, which is not shown in FIG. 2. Via the plug-and-socketpanel 11, the power pack therefore supplies the necessary electricalenergy for all the electrical and electronic components arranged in themeasuring device 1, including the information-output device 9.

Communication between an input/output device and/or theinformation-output device 9 connected to the measuring device 1 and theindividual measuring-device modules takes place exclusively via the bussystem formed on the plug-and-socket panel 11. By preference, a USB(Universal Serial Bus) system can be used in this context. Theplug-and-socket panel 11 is mounted in a floating manner within thereceiving device 10. Screws 28, which are screwed through an extendedrecess in the plug-and-socket panel 11 to a component mounted on thereceiving device 10, but concealed in the diagram by the plug-and-socketpanel 11, are used to fix the plug-and-socket panel 11. Within certainlimits defined by the extended recess, the plug-and-socket panel 11 canbe displaced relative to the receiving device 10. The plug-and-socketpanel 11 is also held by a clamping strip 29. The clamping strip 29consists of a number of spring clips, which additionally fix theplug-and-socket panel 11 and, via the clamping force, prevent theplug-and-socket panel 11 from being displaced too readily. The frictioncaused by a displacement damps the movement of the plug-and-socket panel11 and therefore also of the measuring-device modules plugged into it.

If the measuring-device module is displaced relative to the receivingdevice 10 on the basis of the guide device 15, then the plug-and-socketpanel 11, which is connected to the measuring-device module via therelevant plug socket 12 a to 12 e and/or via the other plug sockets 27a, 27 b, can follow the movement of the fitted measuring-device modules.Accordingly, the plug-and-socket panel 11 experiences friction at theclamping strip 29, thereby damping the movement of the insertedmeasuring-device modules.

The guide device 15 is preferably structured in a symmetrical manner sothat appropriately designed resilient tongues 14 and grooves 27 areintroduced respectively into the cover of the receiving device 10, whichis not illustrated in FIG. 2. In total, ten plug positions are providedin the receiving device 10, of which five are provided for receiving themeasuring-device modules, two plug positions being provided for acomputer module and the other three plug positions being reserved for apower pack. A guide device 15 with resilient tongues 14 is not providedin the region with the power pack. The individual measuring-devicemodules can be built up with different widths, so that several plugpositions may be occupied by a single measuring-device module.

FIG. 3 once again illustrates the receiving device 10, but, in thisdiagram, the cover 33 is also fitted. Moreover, the operating-panelcarrier 16 is attached to the receiving device 10. The receiving device10 is fitted, for example, with a power pack 34 and two measuring-devicemodules 35 and 36, the measuring-device module 35 being designed as acomputer module. The space remaining at the rear of the receiving device10 between the measuring-device modules 35 and 36 is occupied byunapertured-face blank elements 37 and 38. Accordingly, the power pack34, the measuring-device modules 35 and 36 and the blank elements 37 and38 fully occupy the rear of the receiving device 10. The blank elements37 and 38 contact the measuring-device modules 35 and 36 or respectivelythe lateral wall of the receiving device 10 with lamellae, which will bedescribed in greater detail below, and which contribute to a screeningof the measuring-device modules from electromagnetic radiation.

In order to achieve a unified visual appearance and a robust housing forthe measuring device 1, an upper housing part 39 is placed onto thereceiving device 10, which, together with a lower housing part 40, formsthe visible, external measuring-device housing 2 of the measuring device1. The measuring-device modules 35 and 36 and the power pack 34 arefixed in the receiving device 10, into which the measuring-devicemodules are initially only inserted, by means of a rear cover 41 of themeasuring-device housing. The rear cover 41 of the measuring-devicehousing provides an opening 42, through which the sides of themeasuring-device modules 35 and 36 facing towards the rear of thereceiving device 10 and the power pack 34 are accessible. A secondopening 43, which is separated from the opening 42 for themeasuring-device modules 35 and 36 by a web 44, is provided for thepower pack 34.

In order to cover the visible transitions between the measuring-devicemodules 35 and 36 and the blank elements 37 and 38, insertion elements45 are inserted in the rear cover 41 of the measuring-device housing.For this purpose, receiving recesses 48 are formed at an upper edge 46and a lower edge 47 of the opening 42, into which the insertion elements45 are inserted. The gaps which occur between the measuring-devicemodules 35 and 36 and the blank elements 37 and 38 are covered by theinsertion elements 45, so that when the rear cover 41 is in place, avisually unified overall impression of the measuring device 1 is formed.

By contrast with the other measuring-device modules, the power pack 34has its own cooler. For this purpose, a fan 50 is attached at the rearside of the power pack 34, which causes a flow of cooling air throughthe interior of the power pack 34, lateral inlet openings 51 beingprovided for the flow of cooling air. The inlet openings 51 are arrangedin a lateral wall of the receiving device 10. Slots 52 are formed at acorresponding position in the lower part of the housing.

Furthermore, a power connection 53 is provided at the rear wall of thepower pack 34, by means of which the measuring device 1 can be connectedto a power cable. A main switch 54 is provided in order to switch themeasuring device 1 on and off. This main switch 54 is used for thecomplete isolation of the device. For a normal operational interruption,the measuring device 1 can be switched on and off via a standby switcharranged on the front panel.

FIG. 4 once again shows the receiving device 10, wherein themeasuring-device modules 35 and 36 are shown withdrawn from themeasuring device. Each of the measuring-device modules 35 and 36 isconnected via a contact strip 55 or 56 respectively to one of the plugsockets 12 a to 12 e or 27 a or 27 b respectively. At the side of themeasuring-device module 36 opposite to the contact strip 56 of themeasuring-device module 36, which faces towards the rear of themeasuring device, electrical contacts 57, 57′ and 57″ are formed, whichcan be input or output contacts for each of the relevantmeasuring-device modules. The measuring-device module 36 is provided forprocessing measurement signals, which originate from the device undertest (DUT). The devices to be tested may be connected, for example, toone of the connections 57, 57′ or 57″. A measurement signal of this kindis processed entirely within the measuring-device module 36. Theparameters, which are required for processing an incoming signal of thiskind, are supplied to the measuring-device module 36 via the bus systemof the plug-and-socket panel 11 and the contact strip 56.

Testing a device in this manner leads to the output of a data recordfrom the measuring-device module 36, the data record being madeavailable, via the contact strip 56 through the measuring-device module36 and the bus system of the plug-and-socket panel 11, to othermeasuring devices or to the information-output device 9 for display. Inthe exemplary embodiment presented, as already described with referenceto FIG. 1, the connection 6, which is accessible from the front of themeasuring device 1, is formed on the measuring-device module 36 inaddition to the electrical connections 57, 57′, 57″ at the rear of themeasuring device 1. Both the electrical connection 6 and also theelectrical connections 57, 57′, and 57″ are used for the input andoutput of signals, which are required for the measurement, including,for example, trigger signals, wherein the processing of a measuredsignal takes place exclusively within the measuring-device module. Thedata record determined in this manner can be further processed in othermeasuring-device modules or external computer units or can be presentedvia a display device.

By contrast, the measuring-device module 35 is designed as a computermodule and is connected via the contact strip 55 to theinformation-output device 9. This computer module controls the USB busused jointly by the measuring-device module 36 and the computer module.At the side facing towards the rear of the measuring device 1, aconnection 58 is provided on the measuring-device module 35, inter alia,for an additional monitor device.

On the blank element 37 arranged between the measuring-device module 35and the measuring-device module 36, lamellae 59 are formed on both sidesfacing the measuring-device modules 35 and 36, which are in contact withthe measuring-device modules 35 and 36 in the rear region of themeasuring-device modules 35 and 36, when the measuring-device modules 35and 36 are plugged into the measuring device 1. The lamellae 59 aremanufactured from a conductive material, so that they contribute to thescreening of the measuring-device modules 35 and 36 arranged in thereceiving device 10. Lamellae, which achieve a screening ofelectromagnetic radiation, are also formed on both sides of the blankelement 38 arranged between the measuring-device module 36 and thelateral wall of the receiving device 10. These lamellae 59 of the blankelements 37 and 38 co-operate with corresponding lamellae, formed oneach measuring-device module 35 and 36 respectively, which will beexplained in greater detail in connection with the structure of themeasuring-device modules 35 and 36. The lamellae are designed in theform of flat metal clips, which can be subjected to resilientdeformation and therefore achieve a secure contact with the adjacentstructural component.

FIG. 5 once again shows the receiving device 10, with the blank elements37 and 38 removed. Threaded boreholes 60 to the base 17 of the receivingdevice and to the cover 33 are provided in the blank elements 37 and 38,so that the blank elements 37 and 38 can be screwed to the cover 33and/or the base 17 of the receiving device 10. For this purpose, screws61 are screwed through the base 17 of the receiving device 10 and thecover 33 into the corresponding threaded boreholes 60.

FIG. 6 shows a first exemplary embodiment of the structure of ameasuring-device module according to the invention. A first frameelement 67 and a second frame element 68 act as bearing components ofthe measuring-device module. The two frame elements 67 and 68 areessentially rectangular, the first frame element 67 providing a groove69 at its side facing towards the second frame element 68, into which ahigh frequency sealing thread is inserted. The first frame element 67and the second frame element 68 can be connected to one another alongthis groove 69 so that an enclosed base frame is formed along the groove69 consisting of the first frame element 67 and the second frame element68. A main printed-circuit board 70 is mounted in this base frame.

To accommodate the main printed-circuit board 70, the first frameelement 67 provides a mounting element 73 arranged on the innerperiphery of the frame element 67, onto which the main printed-circuitboard 70 is placed.

Centring elements 74 are preferably attached to the mounting element 73,which determine the position of the main printed-circuit board 70relative to the first frame element 67. These centring elements 74 arepreferably designed to be cylindrical in shape with multiple steps, andengage with at least one step in corresponding centring recesses 75 inthe main printed-circuit board.

Furthermore, a first projection 72 a and a second projection 72 b areformed on the main printed-circuit board 70, which project beyond thefirst printed-circuit-board space 80 formed within the peripheral groove69. To allow the passage of the second projection 72 b, a milled recess76 is provided in the second frame element 68, which leaves free a slotslightly wider than the thickness of the main printed-circuit board 70between the two frame elements 67 and 68, when the first frame element67 and the second frame element 68 are joined together. A correspondingmilled recess, which is not shown in the diagram, is formed on thesecond frame element 68 for the first projection 72 a. The projection 72a passes through the milled recess and forms the contact strip 55.

The first frame element 67 and the second frame element 68 combine toform a base frame, in which the main printed-circuit board 70 isclamped. The first frame element 67 and the second frame element 68 fixthe printed-circuit board 70 along the external periphery of the mainprinted-circuit board 70. The majority of the area of the mainprinted-circuit board 70 is not covered by the frame elements 67 and 68.The base frame produced in this manner provides a raised periphery 83 ateach of its sides 81 and 82 facing away from one another, which is usedfor fixing cover plates 84 and 85 onto the base frame.

The cover plates 84 and 85 enclose the base frame and accordingly forman enclosed first printed-circuit-board space 68, in which the majorityof the main printed-circuit board 70 is arranged. Since the cover plates84 and 85 and also the first frame element 67 and the second frameelement 68 are manufactured from a metallic material, the componentsarranged in the interior are shielded from electromagnetic radiation.The cover plates 84 and 85 are identical in structure, and thedescription below is therefore limited to the cover plate 85 illustratedin the foreground.

At its edge 86, the cover plate 85 provides an approximately 90° fold inthe direction towards the second frame element 68. In its exteriorcontour, the fold corresponds to the raised periphery 83 of the secondframe element 68. Like the raised periphery 83, the fold on the outeredge 86 extends around three sides of the rectangular geometry of thebase. Parallel to the fold on the edge 86 of the cover plate 85, thereare several beading strips 87.1 to 87.5 introduced into the cover plate85, wherein the beading strips 87.1 to 87.5 are also orientated asindentations in the direction towards the fold at the edge 86 of thecover plate 85.

A first connection element 88 and a second connection element 89 forconnecting the main printed-circuit-board 70 are arranged on the secondprojection 72 b projecting from the first printed-circuit-board space80. The second projection 72 b extends through the milled recess 76 fromthe first printed-circuit-board space 80 into a secondprinted-circuit-board space 90. The second printed-circuit-board space90 is enclosed by frame arms 91 to 94 provided on the first frameelement 67 and the second frame element 68. When the first frame element67 is connected to the second frame element 68, the mutually facingsurfaces of the frame arms 91 to 94 are therefore once again in flushcontact with one another.

The base frame consisting of the first frame element 67 and the secondframe element 68 therefore forms a first printed-circuit-board space 80and a second printed-circuit-board space 90, wherein the firstprinted-circuit-board space 80 is enclosed at both sides of the mainprinted-circuit board 70 by a cover plate 84 and 85 respectively. Asecond projection 72 b of the main printed-circuit board 70 projectsinto the second printed-circuit-board space 90. To allow the passage ofthe main printed-circuit board 70 into the second printed-circuit-boardspace 90, a milled recess 76, by means of which the firstprinted-circuit-board space 80 is connected to the secondprinted-circuit-board space 90, is provided. In the exemplary embodimentillustrated, a connection element 88 and a second connection element 89in the second printed-circuit-board space 90 are connected to theprinted conductors of the main printed-circuit board 70. A milled recessis also provided on the opposite short side of the measuring-devicemodule, through which the first projection 72 a projects from the firstprinted-circuit-board space 80, the projection 72 a being formed as acontact strip, which can be plugged into one of the plug sockets 12 a to12 e or respectively 27 a or 27 b.

The measuring-device module shown in FIG. 7 essentially corresponds inits structure to the measuring-device module shown in FIG. 6. However,instead of the cover plates 84 and 85, cover plates 84′ and 85′, whichare perforated with cooling-air apertures 95 to achieve improved coolingof the electronic components arranged on the main printed-circuit board70, are provided. To ensure continued, adequate screening, metalliccovers, which prevent electromagnetic interference are attached to themain printed-circuit board.

FIG. 8 shows a further advantageous embodiment of a measuring-devicemodule 36 according to the invention. In this embodiment, the mainprinted-circuit board 70 has a third projection 72 c. Corresponding tothe geometric extension of the third projection 72 c, a connectioncarrier 98 is formed on the first frame element 67′ and the second frameelement 68′. For this purpose, a first connection-carrier element 98 ais formed on the first frame element 67′. Along the outer edge of thefirst frame element 67′, a peripheral groove 69′ is once again formed,which also runs along the outer contour of the first connection-carrierelement 98 a. Furthermore, an enclosed base surface 99 is formed in theregion of the first connection-carrier element 68 a, on the side of theframe element 67′ facing towards the cover plate 84′.

On the second frame element 68′, corresponding to the firstconnection-carrier element 98 a, a second connection-carrier element 98b is provided, which also has a base surface, which is not visible inthe diagram, so that the third projection 72 c of the mainprinted-circuit board 70 is enclosed, when the first frame element 67′and the second frame element 68 are combined to form a base frame. Whilean extremely small gap for the passage of the third projection 72 c isformed in the transitional region between the firstprinted-circuit-board space 80 and the connection carrier 98, anenlarged free space 99′ is formed by a gradation of the base surface 99at the end of the connection carrier 98 facing away from the firstprinted-circuit-board space, in which sufficient space is available toprovide a connection of the main printed-circuit board 70 to the thirdprojection 72 c by an electrical connection 100.

The electrical connection 100 is screwed onto the end face of theconnection carrier 98, an additional fastening surface 101 being formedon the second connection-carrier element 98 b in the exemplaryembodiment illustrated. In dependence upon the installation position ofthe corresponding measuring-device module within the measuring device 1,the additional fastening surface 101 may also be formed on the firstconnection-carrier element 98 a.

FIG. 8 illustrates the measuring-device module 36 as shown in FIG. 4.The measuring-device module is composed of two base elements 65 and 66,the base element 65 corresponding to the base element described withreference to FIG. 7. The base element 66, which is connected to the baseelement 65 in the region of the frame arms and 91 and 92, isadditionally present. The frame arms 91 to 94 are thicker than the partof the first frame element 67′ and the second frame element 68′enclosing the first printed-circuit-board space 80, so that the framearms 91 and 92 can be brought into contact with the frame arms 93 and 94of the base element 65. Together with the frame arms 91 to 94 of thebase element 65, the frame arms 91 to 94 of the base element 66therefore enclose a common structural space, which is described as theadditional printed-circuit-board space 90′.

An additional printed-circuit board, which is not illustrated here, butwhich provides the connection of the main printed-circuit board 70 ofthe base element 66 to a further main printed-circuit board 70 of thebase element 65 may, for example, be arranged in this additionalprinted-circuit-board space 90′.

FIG. 9 once again shows the measuring-device module 36, with the twobase elements 65 and 66 already combined. While the frame elements 67and 68 or respectively 67′ and 68′ are screwed together, the coverplates 84′ and 85′ are merely placed in position. To prevent adisplacement on the relevant base frame, the outer edges 86 of the coverplates are, as already described, folded in such a manner that theyengage around a corresponding, raised periphery 83 formed on therelevant frame element 67, 68, 67′ or 68′. Clip elements 102 areprovided to fix the cover plates 84′ and 85′ to the base frame of thebase elements 65 and 66.

The clip elements 102 are formed as a U-shaped profile, which extendsalong a length, which is at most equal to the length of the beadingstrips 87.1 to 87.5. In this context, the two arms of the U-profile areformed from a row of individual spring clips 103.1 to 103.9 orrespectively, on the opposite side, 104.1 to 104.9. The spring clips103.1 to 103.9 and 104.1 to 104.9 are jointly arranged on a carriersurface 105. The width of this carrier surface 105 is determined by thewidth of the base frame.

In the opposite direction to the direction, in which the spring clips103.1 to 103.9 and 104.1 to 104.9 extend from the carrier surface 105, apair of curved projections 106 are punched out of the carrier surface105 to form a guide element. In this context, the distance between themutually facing edges of the punched-out, curved projections 106 isslightly larger than the lateral extension of the resilient tongues 14.By contrast, the distance between the edges of the punched-out curvedprojections 106 facing away from one another corresponds to the width ofthe groove 27 in the receiving device 16. The punched-out, curvedprojections 106 arranged respectively in pairs on the carrier surface105 of the clip elements 102 accordingly co-operate with the guidecomponent 15 of the receiving device 10 to form a guide device for therespective measuring-device module.

The clip elements 102 are pushed from the external periphery over thecover plates 84′ and 85′ placed on the base frame until lockingprojections 107, which are arranged on each spring clip 103.1 to 103.9and 104.1 to 104.9 at the end facing away from the carrier surface 105,snap into the beading strips 87.1 to 87.5. In this context, the lengthof the spring clips 103.1 to 103.9 and 104.1 to 104.9 is dimensioned insuch a manner that the carrier surface 105 is in contact with the baseframe. This guarantees that the force transferred from the resilienttongues 14 to the measuring-device module is actually transferred to themeasuring-device module and does not merely lead to a displacement ofthe clip elements 102 on the base element.

A clip element 102′, which has a slot 108 in its carrier surface 105′,through which the projection 72 a of the main printed-circuit board 70passes, is also arranged at the end of a base element facing towards thefront of the measuring device 1. Because of the connection carrier 98,the clip element 102′ is shorter than the other clip elements 102. Tocontinue to surround the slot 108, so that it is enclosed by the carriersurface 105′, the respective first spring clip 103.1′ and 104.1′ isdesigned with a bevel.

On the opposite side of the measuring-device module 36, the open,additional printed-circuit-board space 90′, in which the firstconnection element 88 and the second connection element 89 are screwedto the second projection 72 b of the main printed-circuit board 70 ofthe base element 65, is covered by a housing cover 110. The housingcover 110 covers three sides of the additional printed-circuit-boardspace 90′ formed by the frame arms 91 to 94 of the base element 65 andthe frame arms 91 to 94 of the base element 66. The housing cover 110has lateral cheeks 111 and 112, of which the extension in the directiontowards the electrical connection 100 is greater than the length of theframe arms 91 to 94. Accordingly, the lateral cheek 111 overlaps thecover plate 85′, and the lateral cheek 112 overlaps the cover plate 84′.Each of the cover plates 84′ and 85′ is then screwed, together with thelateral cheeks 111 and 112 respectively, to one of the frame elements.Accordingly, by means of the joint screw connection of the lateralcheeks 111 and 112 to the cover plates 84′ and 85′ respectively, contactwith the relevant base element is ensured even in the region, in whichthe cover plates 84′ and 85′ cannot be fixed with a clip element 102.

Furthermore, a region is provided in the lateral cheek 111, in which thelamellae 59, already mentioned with reference to the blank elements 37and 38, are arranged. The lateral cheeks 111 and 112 are connected toone another via a rear wall 113, connection apertures 114, 114′ and 114″being provided in the rear wall 113, through which the electricalconnections 57, 57′ and 57″ project from the housing cover 110, when thehousing cover 110 is placed onto the measuring-device module 36.

In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, a further fan 115 is providedin the housing cover 110, which is used to increase the air flow in theregion of the base elements 65 and 66. A gap is provided between themutually facing cover plate 85′ of the base element 66 and the coverplate 84′ of the base element 65, which allows a through flow of coolingair. To manufacture a gap of this kind, the size of which is determinedby the grid dimension of the guide devices 15 in the receiving device10, spacing elements are provided between the base elements 65 and 66 inthe region of the frame arms 91 and 92 of the base element 66 and theframe arms 93 and 94 of the base element 65. These will be explainedwith reference to FIG. 10.

In the simplest case, a measuring-device module is represented by asingle base element, as shown in FIG. 10. The grid dimension, in whichthe guide devices 15 are arranged within the receiver device 10, isdetermined by the structural width of a measuring-device module of thiskind. As already mentioned in the explanation of the connection of morethan one base element, with a base element of this kind, the maximumstructural width is in the region of the frame arms 91 to 94.

The material thickness of the lateral cheeks 111 and 112 of the housingcover 110 is added to this structural width. If the measuring-devicemodule is composed of two base elements, as in the case of themeasuring-device module illustrated in FIG. 9, then the lateral cheeks111 and 112 respectively, which are arranged between the frame arms 91to 94 of two base elements, are dispensed with because of the commonhousing cover 110. Accordingly, if two base elements are combined toform a measuring-device module, then two spacing elements are insertedbetween the two base elements to ensure that the grid dimension ismaintained.

In this context, the spacing elements 120 have an external contour 121,which corresponds with the external contour of the lateral cheeks 111and 112 respectively. Accordingly, one part of the spacing elements 120overlaps the corresponding cover plate 84′ or 85′ respectively of thebase elements 65 or 66 respectively, which are to be connected, in sucha manner that the corresponding cover plates 84′ and 85 respectively arealso fixed in the region of the transition between the firstprinted-circuit-board space 80 and the additional printed-circuit-boardspace 90′. Furthermore, the spacing elements 120 have an internalcontour 122, which corresponds with the internal geometry of the secondprinted-circuit-board space 90 formed by the frame elements 67 and 68together with the frame arms 91 to 94.

FIG. 11 once again shows the complete measuring-device module 36, thestructure of which has already been explained in detail with referenceto FIGS. 6 to 10. The measuring-device module 36 provides an electricalconnection 100 facing towards the front of the measuring device 1, whichcan be formed, for example, as an N-socket or a BNC-socket. Threeelectrical connections 57, 57′ and 57″, which are designed asconventional connections for measuring devices, are arranged at the endof the measuring-device module 36 facing towards the rear of themeasuring device 1. The measuring-device module 36 therefore hasconnections facing the front of the measuring device 1 and also facingthe rear of the measuring device 1, so that, in the event of a simplechange of the device under test, the measuring device 1 can still beoperated exclusively from the front.

FIG. 12 once again shows the front of the measuring-device module 36.The electrical connection 100 is attached to the connection carrier 98,which is composed of the first connection carrier element 98 a and thesecond connection carrier element 98 b. As already explained in thedescription relating to FIG. 8, an enlargement of the volume surroundedby the connection carrier 98 in the direction towards the electricalconnection 100 is achieved by a gradation of the base surface 99, whichforms the outer limit of the connection carrier. As a result of thiswidening of the first connection-carrier element 98 a, a mountingsurface 125, which is composed of the front faces of the firstconnection carrier element 98 a and 98 b, is also enlarged. To allow anenlargement of this kind of the mounting surface 125, an additionalattachment surface 101 is provided on the second connection-carrierelement 98 b. This surface 101 is used only to receive the electricalconnection 100, but does not lead to an enlargement of the interiorvolume of the connection carrier 98.

In dependence upon the plug position in which the measuring-devicemodule is inserted, the connection-carrier element 98 b can also beprovided with the gradation in order to enlarge the structural space,and the additional attachment surface 101 can be formed on the firstconnection-carrier element 98 a. The guide components 15 used to receivemeasuring-device modules, which have a connection-carrier 98, areprovided with a larger gap because of the increased space requirement.

To improve the flow of cooling air, the spacing elements 120 can also bedesigned in two parts. Two-part spacing elements of this kind are shownin FIG. 13 with the reference numbers 126 and 126′. The spacing betweenbase elements in this context is provided only in the region of theframe arms 91 to 94, so that the flow of cooling air entering betweenthe cover plates 84 and 85 extends into the region of the spacingelements 126 and 126′, where it flows into the additionalprinted-circuit-board space 90′. The cooling of the measuring-devicemodule is considerably improved especially when using an additional fan115.

FIG. 14 shows a measuring-device module 35 designed as a computermodule. The measuring-device module 35 comprises a base element 66′ andis connected at its end facing the rear of the measuring device to aframe body 127, which supplements the second printed-circuit-board space90 forming an additional printed-circuit-board space 90′. The internalgeometry of the frame body 127 corresponds to that of the spacingelements 120; however, its thickness corresponds to the width of theframe arms 91 to 94 of a base element. With a frame body 127 of thiskind, a base element 66′ is supplemented in such a manner, that theadditional printed-circuit-board space 90′, previously discussed inrelation to the measuring-device module 36, is formed, without the needto connect a complete, second base element to the base element 66′.Spacing elements 120 are again inserted between the base element 66′ andthe frame body 127, so that the overall width of the measuring-devicemodule 35 is once again a multiple of the grid dimension.

Various connections of the computer module project through the housingcover 110′ including, inter alia, a video connection for connecting amonitor device. Furthermore, a row of additional connections 130, 131′and 130″ is provided, with which the computer module can be connected,for example, to a network and additional input and output devices.

FIG. 15 shows the computer module 35 from a second perspective. Thediagram clearly shows how the frame body 127 supplements the structuralwidth in the region of the second printed-circuit-board space 90 formingthe additional printed-circuit-board space 90′. This additionalprinted-circuit-board space 90′ is again enclosed by a common housingcover 110.

During the construction of the measuring device 1, two computer modulesmay also be provided, however, this is not illustrated. One computermodel is used for communication with the information-output device 9,while the second computer module is used to control the measuring device1 via external input and output devices and/or via a network, such asEthernet.

In this context, the individual measuring-device modules form completefunctional units, which, with an appropriate power supply, can also beoperated outside the measuring device. This offers the advantage that anindividual measuring-device module can be calibrated, and themeasuring-device modules calibrated in this manner can be interchanged.In particular, in the event of a retrospective replacement of ameasuring-device module, for example, because of a fault, considerablecost savings can be achieved.

1. A measuring device, comprising a device housing and a plug-in measuring-device module, the device housing comprising a front side, a rear side, and an interior, wherein the front side of the device housing comprises an integrated display device affixed thereon, and the interior of the device housing is accessible from openings in the rear side of the device housing sized and configured to accept one or more plug-in measuring-device modules and an aperture, adjacent the integrated display device on the front side of the device housing, sized and configured to pass a first electrical connection formed on the plug-in measuring-device module; wherein the plug-in measuring-device module is inserted into the device housing from the rear side and connected by a plug-and-socket panel to the integrated display device, the plug-in measuring-device module comprising a body, a front side comprising a first electrical connection projecting from the body, and a rear side comprising a second electrical connection, wherein the first electrical connection and the second electrical connection are data input/output connections; and wherein the first electrical connection on the plug-in measuring-device module projects through the aperture on the front side of the device housing to provide a measuring device with data input/output connections to the plug-in measuring-device module accessible from the front side of the device housing and the rear side of the device housing.
 2. Measuring device according to claim 1, characterized in that at least a part of the measuring-device module (35, 36) provides electrical contacts (57, 57′, 57″, 58, 130, 130″), which are accessible from the rear side of the measuring device housing (1).
 3. Measuring device according to claim 1, characterized in that for each measuring-device module (35, 36) to be accommodated, at least one guide component (15) for the guidance of the measuring-device modules is provided, wherein the at least one guide component (15) provides a resilient, deformable guide element for the resilient mounting of the measuring-device module (35, 36).
 4. Measuring device according to claim 3, characterized in that the guide components (15) for adjacent measuring-device modules (35, 36) are spaced at a distance such that a cooling-air gap is formed between adjacent measuring-device modules (35, 36).
 5. Measuring device according to claim 3, characterized in that the resilient, deformable guide elements are formed by resilient tongues (14) arranged in a row.
 6. Measuring device according to claim 1, characterized in that the plug-and-socket panel (11) is mounted in such a manner that it can be displaced within a receiving device (10) in at least one plane perpendicular to the direction of insertion of the measuring-device modules (35, 36).
 7. Measuring device according to claim 1, characterized in that, in order to retain the measuring-device modules (35, 36), a rear cover (41) is provided for the measuring-device housing, which cover (41) has at least one recess (42), through which connections of the measuring-device modules (35, 36) orientated towards the rear of the device housing are accessible.
 8. Measuring device according to claim 7, characterized in that insertion elements (45) can be inserted into the rear cover of the measuring-device housing (41) in order to cover cooling-air gaps between the measuring-device modules (35, 36) and/or blank elements (37, 38).
 9. Measuring device according to claim 1, characterized in that each measuring-device module (35, 36) is formed as a functional unit, and that data can be transferred via a bus system either between various measuring-device modules (35, 36) or to the integrated display device.
 10. Measuring device according to claim 9, characterized in that the integrated display device is designed as an input/output device.
 11. Measuring device according to claim 9, characterized in that at least one measuring-device module (35) is designed as a computer module for controlling data transfer via the bus system.
 12. Measuring device according to claim 9, characterized in that a plug-in power pack is provided, which is also connected to the plug-and-socket panel (11) via an electrical plug-connection (13), wherein the power supply to the measuring-device modules (35, 36) is provided via the bus system. 